Paros has a beach for all tastes; quiet, sandy coves with glistening waters, long sweeps of dramatic rock formations, breezy shores perfect for watersport lovers, and even a natural exfoliating mud beach for a healing spa day.
Many beaches are organised as Paros is a busy island popular with a wide spectrum of visitors but from families with young children through partygoers, surf worshippers, and naturists, the island is big enough to cater for all. With over forty shorelines to choose from, Paros benefits from a coastal road which encircles the island providing easy access to even the remotest beaches.
Kolymbithres
One of the most famous beaches on the island, Kolymbithres is found in the larger Plastira Bay area. Known for its unique rock formations, the beach has giant granite boulders eroded smooth over time. There is a series of small coves, some only big enough for a couple, some that can host a couple of families before the main beach itself. Organised with beds, umbrellas and a beach bar, it is loved by families who appreciate the sheltered, shallow waters and the handy tavernas a short walk away. Water taxis run throughout the day from Naoussa, it is on a bus route and there is limited parking behind the beach.
Lageri
On the same peninsula as Santa Maria in the northeast of the island but facing west is the long sandy beach of Lageri. Unorganised, the beach has shade from trees at the rear and lovely clear waters. Frequented by a nude and gay crowd, it is one of the quieter and more serene beaches on the island. Parking is a 5 minute walk from the beach and the bars at Santa Maria are a short walk away for refreshments.
Pounda
Outside of Mykonos and Ios, Pounda Beach is the liveliest party beach in the Cyclades. Not to be confused with Pounda where the boats leave for Antiparos, Pounda is south of Piso Livadi and has a decent stretch of wide golden sand somewhat lost under a sea of very expensive sunbed and parasol rentals. Fully serviced, the goal here is pure hedonism with parties by swimming pools, sea sports, boutiques and two beach bars that whip up the festivities.
Agia Irini
Small and a few kilometres south of Parikia, the beach takes its name from the pretty church right on the coastline. Sandy and backed by palm trees, Agia Irini feels exotic with sheltered, clear waters that remind of the Tropics. The lush vegetation provides plenty of shade while the tavern offers umbrellas and beds to rent. Relatively narrow, the beach can get busy in high season and access is by car.
Livadia
There are a couple of scrubby stretches of shoreline at Parikia but Livadia is considered the closest true beach to Paros Town. The first bay north of the harbour, Livadia is a series of smaller sand beaches, some organised with bed and umbrella rentals, others backed by trees and with no amenities. Just a 10 minute walk from town and near a camping site, the beach can get crowded.
Kalogeros
The free spa-day of Paros! A small beach surrounded by rugged cliffs and especially bright water, the cliffs are made of clays that are therapeutic for the skin. Secluded and without infrastructure, come prepared although there is a taverna nearby.
Martselo
Also known as Marchello, the famously cool waters attract swimmers on the hottest days of the year. A continuation of the white sands of Krios beach, the beach is serviced with umbrellas and beds. A favourite with younger visitors, a beach club plays Greek pop but the further west one goes there are secluded coves to find some peace. A 45 minute hike from town, the nicest way to access the beach is to take one of the many water taxis from Parikia.
Molos
In a sheltered bay near to the village of Marmara, the beach is a long sweep of white and gold sand, with green waters and a fine view across to Naxos and south to the Kefalos hill.. Surrounded by cliffs, Molos is a good choice when the wind is whipping up the waves elsewhere. There are a few trees for shade, and to the south there is a tavern and a trail that leads to Kalogeros beach. Never crowded it is very safe for families and mostly popular with in-the-know locals.
Farangas
3 kilometres from Aliki on the southern coast, Farangas is a pleasant beach with fine sand and clear waters. There is a beach bar which has somewhat taken over the strand with umbrellas and beds crammed in but there is room for those who want to make their own space.
Parasporos
A mixture of fine pebbles and sand, Parasporos is a 10 minute drive from Parikia. Organised with umbrellas and sunchairs, the beach is also big enough for those who seek some privacy with trees providing shade, while a couple of beach bars offer refreshment and entertainment. There is ample parking to the rear and side and the beach is also served by the bus.
Read also:
The best family beaches in Paros
Piso Livadi: A small, peaceful seaside village in Paros, with excellent food
